With qualification changes ranging from an increased focus on extended writing and the removal of tiering, to greater emphasis on the geography of the UK and fieldtrips, the new geography curriculum is providing us all with a range of challenges.

And of all these changes it is perhaps the increased emphasis on fieldtrips that will require the most attention in terms of practical and financial planning.

The specifications cite that students must complete fieldwork in two contrasting environments, and this will inevitably require the school to arrange some form of transport that is cost-effective and can be used at any time to go anywhere.

Leasing a minibus with Benchmark Leasing is one obvious solution for it can often work out cheaper than buying a minibus outright (especially if one takes into account the re-sale value of a school bus at the end of its working life) or hiring a coach each time.

It is an arrangement which makes it possible for schools to fund the minibus through a small payment each month, which has the added benefit of improved budgeting and cash flow.

And in some cases, where financial contributions are made by parents and the PTA, it is possible to allocate a part of those payments towards the cost of the minibus – reducing the funds being deducted from the school’s capital account.

What’s more, a full maintenance programme is included, so no matter the outcome of the vehicle’s services and MOTs, the cost of repairs won’t affect the lease price.

For more information about leasing a minibus with Benchmark you can visit our website, call us on 01753 859944 or email minibus@benchmarkleasing.co.uk